Magic Christmas

Walter and Jackie Monkhouse are serious when it comes to holiday lights. They started creating elaborate Christmas displays several years ago at their Alexandria, La. home and they've built on it each year. Adding animation to the mix over the years has really got things moving. "We have over 200,000 lights. We also use many special effect lights.... Probably the most crowd-pleasing are the 300+ strobes that vary in size and intensity," Jackie says. The display now requires over five miles of wire, a virtual control room for the choreographed light show and a train. Walter even broadcasts music synchronized to the light show over a low-power FM frequency. He outlines old toys with rope lights and hangs these from two oak trees. The most popular item in the display is a Christmas train he has built that travels through a forest of Christmas trees. Other elements include bubble machines, a snow machine and handmade quilted pieces. "We are really proud to say that Magic Christmas is designed for people of all ages, from toddlers to the seniors, there is something for everyone," says Walter. For example, the toys bring back treasured memories to the older visitors. Everyone loves the Magic! Despite all the complexity of their amazing display, Walter and Jackie set it up themselves. They get started in September and are ready to dazzle the neighbors by early December. An estimated 25,000+ or so folks come by to view the display by the time it's retired for the year shortly after Christmas. They do it all just for the sheer joy of spreading holiday cheer and to help motivate others to create their own display. Walter and Jackie say, "Magic Christmas gives us the satisfaction of knowing we are giving something to the community. In addition, we get the thrill of watching the old and young enjoy the creation we developed. It's truly MAGIC! "Read More